David Gavitt

FOUNDING MEMBERDavid Gavitt Contributor

Inducted in 2006Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee2006BIODavid Gavitt is known as an architect of modern day college basketball. A five-time New England Coach of the Year, Gavitt coached Providence College from 1969 to 1979 and led the Friars to 209 wins, including eight consecutive 20-win seasons, five NCAA tournament appearances, the 1973 Final Four, and three NIT appearances. Gavitt founded the Big East Conference in 1979 and served as its commissioner until 1990. He was head coach of the US Olympic Team in 1980. Gavitt was instrumental in expanding the NCAA Division I tournament to 64 teams. He served as Senior Executive V.P. of the Boston Celtics from 1990 to 1994 and as Chairman of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame from 1995 to 2003. He was named the Naismith Outstanding Contribution to Basketball Award in 1993.Where They Are NowAssociate Commissioner, Men's Basketball for the Big East Conference Where They WereProvidence College 1969-1979